From a former bricklayer to a powerful regional leader, Steve Rotheram is methodically shaping a new future for Liverpool. His approach, described by aides as flying 'beneath the Westminster radar', is now yielding significant results, from a massive dockland regeneration to crucial transport upgrades.
A 'Once-in-a-Generation' Vision for the Mersey
Standing in the new £800m Everton stadium recently, Mayor Rotheram pointed out a vast, dormant landscape to Communities Secretary Steve Reed. The view encompassed 174 hectares of industrial wasteland and disused docks, symbolised by a silent, six-faced 'dockers' clock'. This week, that vision moved closer to reality with the announcement of a government-backed plan to transform the site.
The ambitious project promises 17,000 new homes and commercial premises over the next 15 years. This 'once-in-a-generation' development for the Liverpool city region marks another strategic win for Rotheram, who was first elected to the mayoralty in 2017.
The 'Treasury Whisperer' and His Quiet Wins
While his Manchester counterpart, Andy Burnham, often captures headlines, Rotheram has cultivated a different reputation. A senior government official praised his method of 'quietly getting on well' with key departments, forging a productive relationship with Whitehall. Some in his team now call him the 'Treasury whisperer'.
This low-profile strategy is delivering tangible benefits. In recent months, Rotheram has secured ministerial backing for an overnight tourism levy and reforms to Treasury spending in the regions. Beyond headline-grabbing concerts by stars like Taylor Swift, more foundational changes are underway.
These include the first new Mersey ferry in 60 years, set to launch in 2026, and a potential £2.5bn revamp of Liverpool Central station. A new high-speed rail link to Manchester is also under consideration.
Driven by a Desire to Change Perceptions
For Rotheram, 64, the motivation is deeply personal. He recalls a pivotal moment in 2010, as a new MP, overhearing government officials mock 'typical scousers' after a funding meeting. 'It was a feeling of absolute despair,' he says, an incident that cemented his determination to alter such perceptions.
The former bricklayer, who helped rebuild the Falklands after the war, understands the city's resilience. A lifelong Liverpool FC fan, he was present at the Hillsborough disaster in 1989, a tragedy he narrowly avoided. His family faced danger again in 2017 when his two daughters attended the Manchester Arena attack, escaping unharmed.
Despite holding what he calls 'the dream job for any scouser', Rotheram is not complacent. Even after winning 68% of the vote last year in Labour's safest non-council seat, he warns of a volatile political climate. He believes the rise of Reform UK means no seat is entirely safe, highlighting the need for Labour to demonstrate tangible change ahead of the next mayoral election in 2028.
'What we need to keep doing is demonstrating that Labour in government, Labour in town halls and in our devolved authorities, are the gamechanger for people,' Rotheram stated, underscoring the high stakes for his city and his party.
